School District seeks Department of Justice grant for safety upgrades

Safety and security took center stage at the DeKalb CUSD 428 Board Meeting on April 15, 2025, as the district discussed its third attempt to secure a competitive grant from the Department of Justice. The Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant aims to enhance safety measures within school buildings, a critical focus for the district amid ongoing concerns about student and staff security.

Emma, a key figure in the grant application process, was recognized for her efforts in securing funding that would help offset costs for essential safety upgrades, including security cameras and door entry systems. The grant requires a matching contribution from the district, which means that if awarded $100,000, the district would need to provide $25,000. This financial commitment is seen as a necessary investment in the safety infrastructure of the schools.

The discussion highlighted the interconnected nature of safety initiatives, involving multiple committees and partnerships with local law enforcement. The district is not only focused on physical security measures but is also implementing systems to address mental health concerns. For instance, technology is being utilized to monitor student communications for signs of self-harm, ensuring timely intervention when necessary.

Board members expressed optimism about the grant application, noting that even if the district does not receive the full amount requested, the funds would still be used to address existing security needs. The meeting underscored a collective commitment to creating a safer environment for students and staff, with plans to continue pursuing funding opportunities to support these vital initiatives.

As the district moves forward, the outcome of the grant application will be closely watched, with hopes that it will lead to significant improvements in school safety and security measures.